Welcome to my two-part Christmas series, designed to compare traditional Christmas décor with a more contemporary look.
I’ll start with a traditional Christmas to help evoke the nostalgia of childhood and get you in the mood for decorating.
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The Tree
This gorgeous, full Christmas tree makes me feel like a 4 year old again, waiting up all night to catch a glimpse of Santa. A traditional Christmas is filled with nostalgia, and this is embodied by the stockings hanging over the fireplace and the classic red, gold and silver colours scattered around the room.
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The Wreath
The wreath is the first thing guests will see when they arrive at your home, so it’s important to get it right. This big, beautiful and traditional wreath is super eye-catching and embodies Christmas. The colours are traditional (red, gold and green), and the big red bow makes it feel like a present.
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The Table
This beautiful, study oak table will accommodate guests wonderfully. The decorations here are traditional yet simple – candle sticks, holly and wreaths make this space feel festive yet relaxed. This is the perfect place to sit for hours, nibbling on left-over’s and playing charades.
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The Hallway
It’s always a nice touch to decorate the hallway, and this image is a great example of how to do it well and keep it simple. The big, traditional red bows give the room a warm and festive feel, while the greenery keeps it fresh. The lanterns on the stairs can be added for good measure, but are not compulsory.
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Next week I’ll be looking at what makes a contemporary Christmas (how to really impress Aunt Jan).